Singapore is once again gearing up for the Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix, arguably the city’s biggest event, and the only night-time Formula 1 race in the world. In 2008, the Singapore Grand Prix burst onto the Formula 1 calendar as one of the most dramatic additions to the sport. Now in its fifth year, the race continues to wow audiences around the globe with its remarkable vista of 1,500 lights illuminating the 23-turn street circuit, and its glorious skyline backdrop of iconic modern architecture and colonial heritage buildings.

For Nobert Haug, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz motorsport, it is not just the stunning backdrop, but the proximity to the action that makes the event so special for racing fans: “For most Formula One fans, Singapore rhymes with glamour. On many levels, the Singapore Grand Prix could be called the “Monaco of South-East Asia”, with those 24 cars dancing between the walls, sometimes only a few centimeters away… this race is a fantastic event and hopefully it stays forever on the calendar. It produces the most spectacular television pictures and is totally unique.”

Singapore GP Race Action. Photo courtesy of Singapore GP.

For race-goers, the Singapore Grand Prix offers a unique combination of race action and world-class entertainment. While it is undoubtedly the adrenaline-inducing sight and sound of the Formula One racing cars that enthusiasts come for, off-the-track entertainment promises to bring the heat up a few more notches. Current World Champion Sebastian Vettel agrees: “It’s spectacular seeing the cars so close at night, seeing them right in front of you in the middle of the city… also around the race there are a lot of concerts going on, things like that make it all in all very spectacular for people to come. The attraction is huge. I think we are quiet privileged to part of that… it makes our job very enjoyable.”

While Vettel and other racing heroes Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button will be battling it out at exhilarating speeds of up to 300km/h, global musical superstars are flying in to entertain the crowds into the night. Race-goers shouldn’t expect to head home too early, as once the sound of the F1 engines fades into the darkness, Asian R&B king Jay Chou, multiple Grammy-award winner Maroon 5, and global musical icon Katy Perry will all be gracing the Padang stage.

Crowds at the Padang stage. Photo courtesy of Singapore GP.

So for those planning to be in Singapore between 21st and 23rd September this year… get ready for the lights, glamour and electrifying drama of a night race set in the heart of the city.